Welcome to the great city, Berlin! If you’re going to visit Berlin, or even if you’re just curious, this is a beginner’s guide to the original Berlin. There is a rich history to this city and the nightlife is a bustling one.
1. Historical Significance
Its storied past has helped give Berlin its one of a kind identity. It was the capital of Germany, and had been of major importance politically and historically speaking, for World War II and the Cold War. History lovers must pay a visit to the iconic Berlin Wall which used to keep the city divided.
The Berlin Wall
For nearly three decades, from 1961, the Berlin Wall stood as a physical wall between East and West Berlin. Remaining today is only remnants of the wall that remind us of the troubled past of the city. Explore the East Side Gallery, a section of the wall where there are colourful murals by artists all over the world.
Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie is another historical site, which was the famous border crossing point for the Cold War. The Checkpoint Charlie Museum will give you the opportunity to gain some insights into life at this time and hear about brave escape attempts by East Berliners.
2. Cultural Diversity
The city of Berlin is a melting pot of cultures so it is a bustling, diverse city. Rich in its cultural tapestry, its art scene is vibrant, its multicultural neighborhoods are numerous and its international cuisine is diverse.
Museum Island
And if you are an art lover, don’t miss Museum Island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Pergamon Museum is one of the five world renowned museums, featuring impressive archaeological treasures.
Kreuzberg
Larger than Kreuzberg is Neukölln, which is famed for its multicultural vibe and its wall art. An experience you can take in Oranienstraße and get stuck in the local art scene. That is why you should not miss the famous Turkish market where you can taste the delicious international cuisine.
3. Eclectic Nightlife
And in Berlin the nightlife is legendary, with something to cater for all tastes. The underground clubs, live music venues and eclectic bars make the city famous.
Berghain
Berlin’s techno clubs are well known: Berghain, in a disused power plant, is one of the world’s biggest techno clubs. If you’re an electronic music lover with a strict door policy to remember, you’ll know that this one is famous.
Prater Garten
If you’re looking for a laid back atmosphere head to Prater Garten, which is Berlin’s oldest beer garden. Get a refreshing German beer while relaxing under chestnut trees and live the lively atmosphere.
4. Green Spaces
Contrary to its bustling urban scenes, Berlin boasts of green spaces where one can get startled out of the hustle and bustle.
Tiergarten
Berlin’s large park is Tiergarten, a serene oasis in the very centre of the city. Take a bike and go down the nice paths, or just sit on the lake and have a picnic.
Volkspark Friedrichshain
Another beautiful park to visit in is Volkspark Friedrichshain, which is found in the Friedrichshain neighborhood. Panoramic view of the park from Märchenbrunnen (Fairy Tale Fountain) is a climb worthy of a fairy tale.
5. Local Cuisine
When in Berlin, you have to sample at least a few of its local delicacies.
Currywurst
A popular street food, currywurst is simply sliced sausage sprinkled with curry ketchup. It’s a simple, delicious treat that you can find all over the city at food stands.
Berliner Pfannkuchen
For a so very sweet tooth: a jelly filled doughnut dusted with powdered sugar — better known as Berliner Pfannkuchen. Find one of those delightful pastries at a local bakery and get your hands on one.
Let’s Get Ready to Explore the Original Berlin?
Berlin is a great city to visit — history, culture, nightlife, green spaces, local cuisine — the list goes on. I hope this has been a beginner’s guide to a glimmering about the realms of the original Berlin.
Be sure to prepare beforehand, as this vibrant city is a place you want to spend a good amount of time at. Berlin has something for everyone who is interested in history, art or just a nice date night out. Prepare to live the original Berlin atmosphere!